This dog suffered a horrific attack that left his face severely burned, but thanks to the dedication of compassionate veterinarians, he has been making an extraordinary recovery.
In April 2021, the Tunica Humane Society shared the heartbreaking story of Buddy, a once-happy and carefree dog who posed no threat to anyone. Tragically, he was set on fire, leaving his face completely scorched and blackened. To make matters worse, an extension cord had been wrapped around his neck.
Buddy was placed under the care of the Tunica Humane Society in Mississippi and received treatment from the Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine. Though his road to recovery was long and uncertain, there was hope.
“Buddy’s vital signs are stable, but as with any burn patient, this is just the beginning of a very challenging journey,” explained Dr. Elizabeth Swanson, an associate professor and veterinary surgeon, in an interview with WTVA.
She added, “We are keeping him comfortable, changing his bandages, and addressing any complications as they arise.”
Despite the severity of his injuries, Buddy’s eyesight remained intact. Veterinarians believed his eyes were undamaged, though surgery would be needed to repair his eyelids. It was expected that he would regain some vision once he fully healed.
Buddy had to wear extensive bandages across his upper body, yet his spirits never wavered.
“He continues to make progress every day,” the Humane Society shared on Facebook. “He has never once disappointed his doctors. Everyone is incredibly pleased with the success of his skin grafts. Healing from burns is a slow process, but Buddy is excelling.”
They added, “During his bandage change today, we saw remarkable improvement in his face. And as he heals, he’s even learning basic commands.”
“This sweet, loving dog didn’t deserve what happened to him,” the organization wrote. “He was never a danger to anyone. This was an act of extreme cruelty.”
They also expressed hope that Buddy’s suffering would not be in vain, stating, “We pray that something good comes from this tragedy, that change will happen, and that justice will be served in cases like Buddy’s.”
Since Buddy’s story first made headlines, he has continued to make remarkable strides, receiving top-notch care from the veterinary team at Mississippi State.
Through skin grafts and a gradual reduction in bandages, Buddy slowly regained his strength and started to resemble his old self.
“Now that his ears are free from the bandages, he is noticeably happier and more playful. He’s surely feeling joy as his life begins to return to normal,” the Humane Society reported last month.
Then, on August 7, Buddy reached a major milestone in his recovery.
For the first time since the attack, his bandages were removed from his eyes without heavy sedation—meaning he was finally able to see again after more than three months.
“His eyes were open, and he was very aware,” the Humane Society announced. “To answer the thousands of prayers—YES, Buddy can still see.”
They reflected on the significance of this moment, writing, “Buddy’s last real memory of vision was in those final horrific moments before a child set his face on fire. In an instant, his world changed.”
Being able to see again marked a huge step toward normalcy, and his caregivers noticed a transformation in his personality.
“Since seeing the light of day, Buddy’s entire demeanor has changed,” said Sandy Williams, director of the Tunica Humane Society, in an interview with WREG.
“He is happy, playful, and now walks the hospital halls with a big ball in his mouth. He loves balls—he carries them around to show everyone.”
A video shared by the rescue even shows Buddy joyfully playing fetch.
Though this milestone is significant, Buddy’s journey isn’t over. His recovery is ongoing, and he will still need surgery on his eyelids to protect his vision.
Due to the severity of his injuries, he will require special care for the rest of his life.
“His skin will always be sensitive, his eyes may need regular eye drops, and he’ll have to wear sunscreen outdoors,” Williams explained. “He won’t be a dog that can stay in the sun for hours.”
Despite these challenges, it’s heartwarming to see Buddy thriving, regaining his vision, and looking more like his old self. His incredible recovery has been made possible by the kindness and dedication of those who never gave up on him.
